Polk Street Block Party to begin Saturday in city

Posted: Sunday, August 15, 1999

Area residents will converge on the city's core for the fourth annual Polk Street Block Party sponsored by Center City of Amarillo Inc. The party will begin at 4 p.m. Saturday on Polk Street between Sixth and 10th avenues.

Festivities, which continue until 1 a.m. Aug. 22, will include live music on several stages, food booths, a dance, art exhibit, sand volleyball games and a Poker Run.

Organizers planned the event to draw a diverse group of people into downtown Amarillo, according to a news release from the Center City office.

"Last year's event went off without a hitch, and we are confident everyone is going to have a good time," said Jane Brady, Center City director. "You'll see adults of all ages and from all walks of life at the block party, and we encourage everyone to come out and enjoy the activities."

Highlights include about 20 entertainers and a variety of ethnic foods. The Budweiser Cafe Center City Stage will have tables and places for people to sit in a cafe-style atmosphere.

The Polk Art Exhibition will feature works from local artists exhibited at untitled...an art gallery, 709 S. Polk St., inside The Secret Garden. Michael Grauer, curator of art for the Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum, will be the show judge. Cash prizes will be awarded for the top three places.

Adults 21 and older can wear a wristband and purchase beer. People also can buy soft drinks.

Center City is a public/private partnership dedicated to revitalizing downtown Amarillo by retaining current businesses, bringing in new businesses and adding new life to the city's core.

Tickets for the event cost $6 in advance and $9 at the gate. Proceeds from ticket sales and from beverage booths benefit Center City programs. For advance tickets or other details, call the Center City office at 373-7800.